So Liverpool enter transfer deadline day with most of their usual subplots already brought to a successful conclusion.
Sepp van den Berg became the latest to have his future resolved on Tuesday as he signed a new long-term contract at Anfield before completing a loan switch to Schalke for the season.
It's the type of deal Liverpool have become adept at in recent years, ensuring that their young hopefuls retain their value while on loan before potentially increasing it through impressive performances. Having made 50 appearances for Championship side Preston North End last term, a year in the Bundesliga is viewed as ideal for Van den Berg, who is still just 20.
